Does the FMLA provide job protection for employees affected by the closure of a business?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) does not necessarily provide job protection for employees affected by the closure of a business in Washington. Under the FMLA, employers must provide eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons including a serious health condition. However, the FMLA does not require employers to continue to employ workers if a business closes. If a business closes due to financial distress, the employees may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits. The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is the official body that oversees unemployment benefits in the state of Washington. The decision as to whether or not an employee is eligible for benefits depends on the circumstances of the employer’s closure and the employee’s job status with the company. Generally, an employee who has been at the same job for a certain length of time and is no longer able to work due to the closure may qualify for unemployment benefits. It is important to note that FMLA job protection does not necessarily cover employees affected by the closure of a business. If a business closes, the best course of action for employees is to contact the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries to determine their eligibility for unemployment benefits.

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Does the FMLA provide job protection for employees affected by the closure of a business?

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